Howitzers

Howitzers

Howitzers were manufactured in different projectile weight classes. The 12-pounder (pictured at left) weighed 1,700 lbs and could propel a 9 lb explosive shell more than 1,000 yards. The 24-pounder howitzer weighed 2,500 lbs and could hurl an 18 lb shell more than 1,400 yards. The 32-pounder and 42 pounder howitzers were also used. Unlike guns that fired on a flat trajectory, the smooth bore howitzer, commonly made of bronze, could fire in a curved arc, allowing the shells fired to drop behind the enemy walls and other battlements. The explosive shells ranged from six to 18 pounds and could be fired with a lower charge than the high-trajectory mortars that fired a solid ball. Both North and South used these weapons, usually mounting them on wooden 2-wheeled carriages.